Soar High Through the Treetop World of Anakeesta in Gatlinburg
Have you ever heard of Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, TN? If not, are you gonna be blown away! Come along with us as we travel to a whole new world on top of a mountain.
♥️A special thank you to Anakeesta for providing us with complimentary tickets in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own. ♥️
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This is Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, TN
For this trip to Tennessee, I was looking for a place where I could “get away from it all.” Like a world on top of a mountain filled with lush botanical gardens, a soaring tower encircled by the clouds, breathtaking mountain views, enchanting treehouses, and bridges that connect the treetops.
Well I found it.
It is called Anakeesta.
What Does Anakeesta Mean?
Anakeesta is a Cherokee Indian word referring to high ground. Therefore, that’s exactly where you will find yourself after a 600 foot scenic chondola ride up to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. Located on 70 acres of forested land, right in the middle of downtown Gatlinburg, Anakeesta does an incredible job of maintaining the heritage, and natural beauty of the land all while being a top family attraction.
If heights are not your thing, Anakeesta also offers a open air passenger truck that takes you on a scenic, guided tour up the mountain. Both the chondola and the passenger truck ride offer unlimited rides that is included with your admission.
What Does Anakeesta Offer?
Adventure
Firstly, Anakeesta offers a ton of adventure packed experiences! For example, it includes soaring through the trees on a dueling zipline, racing down the mountain on the Rail Runner Mountain coaster, a challenge course through interactive treehouses, and our family’s favorite, the Treetop Skywalk.
Treetop Skywalk is the longest tree based skywalk in North America!! Walk amongst the canopy on more than 880 feet of hanging bridges that are 50-60 feet in the air! Keep an eye out below as you might spot a bear!
If you need to cool down after spending time in the trees, make sure you stop by the splash pad. It’s a cute replica of a natural stream and the perfect place to cool down.
Relaxation
Secondly, if you need to relax after all that treetop fun, no problem! Take a stroll through the Vista Gardens where you can enjoy the sounds of the waterfall and take in the beauty of the botanical gardens.
In the middle of the Vista Gardens, you can climb to the top of the Anavista Tower and delight in the stunning 360 degree views of the mountains from Gatlinburg’s highest point! You can even see all the way to Kentucky!
Shopping & Dining
Meanwhile, if shopping and dining are more your thing, Anakeesta doesn’t disappoint! Firefly Village is filled with restaurants that will tempt all of your taste buds. Whether your looking for a sit down meal at Cliff Top, over looking Mt. LeConte, or treating yourself to a sundae at Pearl’s Pie in the Sky, there is delicious food everywhere you turn!
Firefly Village has shops in some of the cutest whimsical mountain buildings I’ve ever seen! Our favorite had to be the Great Outdoors Trading Company because that is where I bought a card game called “Across the USA.” It has kept my kids busy on many days since we have been home.
You Need to Visit Anakeesta in Gatlinburg!
In conclusion, Anakeesta had to be one of the greatest surprises during our recent trip to Tennessee. Never have I visited a place filled with such wonder, adventure, and relaxation all in one place. There is adventure around every corner so don’t be shocked if you spend the whole day there. If you are traveling to the Smoky Mountain area, make sure you visit Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, TN.
Know Before You Go
- Website: https://www.anakeesta.com
- Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Hours: https://www.anakeesta.com/hours-location-and-directions/
- Admission: https://www.anakeesta.com/pricing/
- Email: info@anakeesta.com
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
14 Comments
Suz | TravelsWithSuz.com
I’d love to visit this place! The gardens and walks are my speed – I’m not into amusement parks and big crowds.
It looks beautiful and low-key; if I’m ever in the area, I’ll check it out!
Thanks so much for the info.
Trisha
I’m just like you as I am not a huge fan of crowds either. This was perfectly spaced out and had something for everyone. So the kids, and parents, were happy at the end of the day!
Julie Gazdecki
I’ve heard about Anakeesta, but did not know anything about it. This would be so beautiful in the fall.
Trisha
It’s fairly new as it only opened a couple of years ago, but your family would love it! The treetop bridges were a huge hit for our kids!
lisa manderino
Wow, that is an amazing view! I would love to visit this area!
Trisha
It is one of our family’s favorite places to visit! Anakeesta is a great place to stop as there is so much to do for the whole family.
Alexis Farmer
I’m afraid of heights, but I would put that aside to visit Anakeesta! It looks like a peaceful oasis 🖤
Trisha
My husband is a little nervous about heights too but he said these didn’t bother him. I hope you get a chance to visit!
Amanda Howe
We visit Gatlinburg often. The last time, a few months ago, we were planning to go to Anakeesta. We actually ran out of time and weren’t able to. My girls would love it. I have to make it a priority next time! It looks like so much fun!
Trisha
There is never enough time; so many amazing things to do and places to see! I think Gatlinburg requires at least a month long stay! 😉 You and your family would love it!
Kendra
It’s probably been a little over 10 years since we last vistited Gatlinburg. We are definitely going to check out Anakeesta when we return! How fun!
Trisha
It was a lot of fun! I hope you get back to Gatlinburg soon!
kmf
I’ve got Gatlinburg on my list abd would love to visit Anakeesta. Especially love that treetop bridge!
Trisha
There is so much to see and do in Gatlinburg. Anakeesta was the perfect mix of things to do and places to relax.